There are close to 16,438 car crashes per day in the United States, equating to approximately six million car crashes per year. We’re a mobile nation, with many of us spending several hours per week behind the wheel. The prospect of getting into an accident is always nestled in the back of every driver’s mind. Vehicle accidents happen regardless of our best intentions, and so do the resulting injuries. If you were to have an accident on the road, it’s likely that you are unsure of the required steps to take if you find yourself injured as a result. Do you know what steps need to be taken if you become injured in an accident? Here are five essential steps to take if you find yourself in the misfortune of being injured in such an event.
- Take Notes
Once an accident has occurred, it is important to take notes as quickly as possible. You want the event to be clear in your mind so you can recount exactly what happened leading up to the accident, as well as what followed. Take down the information of the other party involved in the accident and any witnesses. Any exchange of communication or conversation between the parties involved in the accident should also be noted.
- Take Photos and Save Evidence
It’s ideal to take as many photos of the accident as possible. The scene, injuries, and property damage should all be collected immediately following an accident. In the moments, days, and weeks following the scene, it is essential to keep a record of any exchanges with the other party involved in the accident, as well as any receipts and medical bills acquired.
- File a Police Report
Filing a police report will assist an attorney in any personal injury disputes that may arise in the future following an accident.
- Call Your Insurance Company
As soon as you have taken notes on the incident, obtained information from the other party involved in the accident, and filed a police report, it’s time to report the accident to your insurance provider.
- Call a Lawyer
If any legal action is to take place, you’ll need the help of a lawyer. Although many people believe that an accident can be resolved between the two parties present at the scene of the accident, there is no guarantee that problems will not arrive in the future. The best solution to protect yourself and your assets is to call an experienced attorney in your area.
These actions may not be possible to take on the scene if you are severely injured in an accident, but they are steps that will need to be taken at some point regardless. If you do have the misfortune of being severely injured, it’s best for a close friend or family member to take photos of both your injuries, damage to the car and to collect your statements of the incident while they are still fresh in your mind.
